Hire Your Car For Weddings: A Lucrative Side Hustle?

If you own a unique or unusual vehicle, you may be considering hiring it out for weddings. This could be a great way to make some extra money, but there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, check with your insurer to see if you need additional insurance for wedding hire. You may also need a license from your local authority, especially if your car carries more than eight people. It's also important to remember that hiring out your car comes with the risk of damage, so think carefully before deciding.

Wedding car insurance

If you are simply doing a one-off favour for a friend or family member, your current insurer may grant a wedding car extension with no increase in your premium. However, if you plan on running a wedding car business, you will need a hire and reward policy. This type of policy covers you when transporting people for a fee. It's important to note that you will also need a private hire license from your local authority if you plan on using your car for any event other than a wedding or funeral, such as a prom.

When choosing a wedding car insurance policy, it's important to consider the type of vehicle you have. Classic cars, sports cars, kit cars, American imports, and vintage cars are all popular choices for wedding cars. You'll want to make sure that your insurance policy covers the specific type of vehicle you plan to use. It's also a good idea to look for a policy that includes public liability cover, as this can provide additional protection in case of an accident.

The cost of wedding car insurance can vary depending on the type of vehicle, the level of coverage, and the number of weddings you plan to undertake. It's always a good idea to shop around and compare quotes from different providers to find the best rate. Some insurance companies offer discounts for members of owners' clubs or forums, so be sure to ask about any available discounts.

Self-drive hire

Depending on the insurer, self-hire policies can cover the vehicle and driver during the hire period and are available on a temporary or annual basis. For instance, if you plan to hire out your campervan a few times a year, temporary self-hire insurance may be more suitable. On the other hand, if you regularly advertise and rent out your vehicle, an annual policy that also allows you and others to drive it when it's not on hire could be a more cost-effective option.

It is your responsibility to ensure that the person driving the vehicle meets any criteria specified by your insurers, such as having a clean driving license, being within a certain age range, and possessing the correct license to drive that type of vehicle.

If you own a classic car with classic car insurance, consult your insurer about a possible wedding hire option. While this doesn't mean you can run a full wedding car hire service, you could undertake a limited number of weddings with suitable cover in place.

Chauffeur services

When choosing a chauffeur service, it is important to ask the right questions to ensure you are getting a reliable and professional service. Here are some key questions to ask:

• Have you driven to my destination before? It is important that your chauffeur is familiar with the route to your wedding venue and can navigate any potential traffic delays.
• Will the driver help with our bags? Ensure that your chauffeur will be able to assist with any luggage or belongings you may have.
• Is the driver tip included? Clarify whether the tip for the driver is included in the overall cost to avoid any confusion later.
• Do you charge a flat rate, hourly rate, or by mileage? Understanding the cost structure is important, especially if your wedding venue is located a significant distance from the pick-up location.
• Can we drink champagne? Some chauffeur services may allow for champagne to be consumed during the journey, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.

In addition to these questions, it is also worth enquiring about the chauffeur's experience, their attire (to ensure it aligns with your wedding theme), and whether they can accommodate any special requests you may have.

When booking a wedding car, it is advisable to opt for a reputable company with positive reviews. This will ensure that you receive a high-quality service and reduce the risk of any last-minute cancellations or issues. It is also important to book your wedding car well in advance, especially if you are seeking a classic or vintage vehicle, as these are often booked up to two years in advance.

By asking the right questions and choosing a reputable chauffeur service, you can ensure that your wedding car experience is seamless and stress-free, allowing you to relax and enjoy your special day.

How many cars to hire

The number of cars you will need for a wedding depends on several factors. The most important consideration is the size of your bridal party. The minimum number of cars you will need is one, which carries the bride and the father of the bride to the ceremony. If you are trying to stick to a budget, the rest of the party could travel in taxis. However, you may need up to three cars depending on the size of your party and whether the groom gets a car too.

Traditionally, the bridesmaids, mother of the bride, and flower girls travel together, separate from the bride and her father. The groom, best man, groomsmen, and page boys will also require transport. If you have a large bridal party, you may need to consider hiring a larger vehicle such as a limousine or a VIP minibus.

Another factor to consider is the distance between the collection, ceremony, and reception venues. If the venues are close together, you can save money by having the bridal car transport the groomsmen to the ceremony first, before coming back for the bride and her father. This way, you will get more value out of your wedding car hire.

Finally, your budget will play a role in determining the number of cars you hire. One or two cars are usually sufficient for most weddings, but if you have a large budget or many passengers, you may opt for additional vehicles.

Cost and payment plans

The cost of hiring a wedding car can vary depending on several factors, and it's important to understand these factors to make an informed decision that aligns with your dream and your budget. Here are the key considerations:

• Type of Vehicle: The choice of vehicle significantly influences the cost. Luxury cars such as Rolls-Royces or Bentleys are typically priced higher than standard models. Classic and vintage cars also tend to be more expensive due to their rarity and the maintenance required to keep them in pristine condition.
• Duration of Hire: The length of the hire is a crucial factor. Most companies offer packages based on a set number of hours, with additional costs for exceeding the allocated time. Reducing the hire duration is an effective way to save money.
• Distance Travelled: Similar to time, the distance travelled impacts the cost. Longer distances may result in higher charges due to fuel consumption and the driver's time. This factor is particularly relevant for rare or unique vehicles located far from the wedding venue.
• Season and Day of the Week: The date of your wedding can affect pricing. Peak wedding seasons and weekends, especially Saturdays, often have higher rates. Off-peak times like weekdays or winter months usually offer more affordable options.
• Location-Specific Costs: Depending on your wedding location, there may be additional charges. For example, urban areas like London may incur congestion or Ultra Low Emission Zone fees.

When considering the cost of hiring a wedding car, it's worth noting that prices can start from around £200 and increase depending on the model of the car and the length of your journey. To secure the best deal, it's recommended to obtain multiple quotes from different companies and compare them. Additionally, some companies may offer discounts for booking multiple cars or for off-season weddings.

Regarding payment plans, some companies provide flexible options to help you manage your budget. For instance, they may allow you to spread out payments over time or offer a deposit system with the final balance due a month before the wedding. It's essential to understand each company's payment policy before committing to ensure it aligns with your financial plans.

If you are looking to hire out your own car for weddings, there are a few things to keep in mind. You can register your classic or vintage car on platforms like BookAclassic, which connects car owners with customers looking for unique vehicles for their weddings. These platforms often allow you to set your own rates and choose the events you want to cater to. However, it's important to consider the additional costs associated with this, such as insurance and any necessary licenses.

Frequently asked questions